Go Back

Citrus-Infused Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls

This dish features tender, caramelized chicken coated in a sticky, sweet sauce infused with bright citrus zest. The chicken is cooked until golden and caramelized, then served over steaming rice with a tangy citrus glaze, creating a balance of savory and refreshing flavors with a glossy, appealing appearance.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce for marinade
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce optional for extra umami
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar for caramelization
  • 1 zest of 1 orange or lime citrus zest for brightness
  • 2 tablespoons citrus juice orange or lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking chicken
  • 1 cup water for sauce

Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Rice cooker or pot

Method
 

  1. Begin by marinating the chicken pieces with soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and a teaspoon of citrus zest. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. While the chicken marinates, cook your rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop until fluffy and tender—that’s about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done and set aside.
  3. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized around the edges—about 8-10 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and fragrant.
  4. Meanwhile, combine water, honey or brown sugar, citrus juice, and the remaining citrus zest in a small bowl or measuring cup. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes glossy.
  5. Pour the citrus glaze into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky. You’ll notice it reducing and glistening beautifully.
  6. To serve, spoon fluffy rice into bowls and top generously with the sticky citrus-infused chicken. Drizzle a little extra citrus juice over the top if desired and garnish with additional citrus zest for freshness.
  7. Enjoy your vibrant, savory-sweet citrus chicken rice bowls with a burst of flavor in every bite—bright, sticky, and satisfying.

Notes

For extra freshness, add sliced scallions or cilantro on top. Adjust the amount of citrus juice to suit your taste for more tang or sweetness.